Crocodile.Photo:Getty Images
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The study noted that scientists examined the crocodile fetus' genetic makeup. During this research, the experts discovered DNA sequences in the fetus that resulted from reproduction without the help of a male crocodile.
This isn’t the first time there has beena virgin birth — also known as parthenogenesis, a birth without fertilization — in the animal kingdom. Scientists also cited similar situations with fish, birds, lizards, and snakes. However, this is the first-known instance with a crocodile.
Based on this new study, scientists are reexamining reproduction in crocodiles and related animals. Warren Booth, an author of the study with Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, opened up toNewsweekabout the insight.
“What this also tells us is that as crocodiles and birds use the same mechanism, their extinct relatives—dinosaurs and pterosaurs—are also likely to have been capable of parthenogenetic production. The idea that life finds a way—as inJurassic Park—is not science fiction at all,” Booth said.
Crocodile.Getty Images
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Booth continued, “We have numerous records in birds, snakes, and lizards that record parthenogens being born and surviving. As such, with this new record, we are just starting to scratch the surface in understanding the long-term ecological and evolutionary significance of this trait.”
source: people.com
